The South America Loop

Duration: 25 days

from A$7750

We start this trip in vibrant Buenos Aires before continuing north to the mighty Iguazu Falls and to the iconic sights of Peru. Explore the incredible diversity of the Amazon, colourful colonial cities of Lima and Cusco and of course Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. We then head into Bolivia and experience everything that Lake Titicaca has to offer, visit lively La Paz and cross into Chile by 4WD via the surreal landscapes between Uyuni and the Atacama. Complete your trip with a visit to Santiago and we're certain you'll be swept away by the colour and beauty of this amazing continent

Day 19: La Paz – Uyuni flight and embark on 3 day Salar Uyuni trip to San Pedro Atacama.

Day 20: Salar de Uyuni.

Day 21: Salar de Uyuni – San Pedro de Atacama.

Day 22: Valley of the Moon tour.

Day 23: San Pedro departure transfer to Calama airport for flight to Santiago.

Day 24: Exclusive Santiago Tour.

Day 25: Santiago departure transfer.

Tailor-made suggestions for this itinerary

Add in a side trip to the spectacular Galapagos Islands. View our range of cruises here.

Visit the magnificent city of Rio de Janeiro.

Further Peru's many highlights with visit to the Nazca Lines, the colonial city of Arequipa and the Colca Canyon.

Take South America's most iconic trek and hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Visit Bolivia's spectacular colonial cities including Sucre and the mining town of Potosi.

If you prefer less time in Lake Titicaca we can take you from Puno to La Paz in 1 day rather than the 2 included in this itinerary.

Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires

On arrival in Buenos Aires you will be met by our representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel.
This evening, you are free to explore. We recommend you try a local parilla (steak house) for dinner.

This morning's excursion will introduce you to the
magic of the Argentine capital. After being picked up from your hotel we
start with a visit of 'San Telmo', the oldest barrio (neighbourhood) of
Buenos Aires which is famous for its historic architecture, tango
parlours and antique shops. We take our time and wander through the
cobblestone streets learning about the history of the area and seeing
its sights including its impressive old churches and its abundance of
colourful street art.

We leave San Telmo and the tour continues past the
many architectural highlights of Buenos Aires including the Palace of
Justice, the Argentine National Congress building, the 'Cabildo (old
town hall) and the presidential palace 'Casa Rosada' (pink house).

Next we visit ‘La Boca’, the most picturesque of
all neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires. This extravagant zone is completely
different to the old and to the modern Buenos Aires and romantic stories
tell us that tango was born in this working class area. We wander its
famous street “Caminito” where you will have the chance to view the
spectacle of impromptu tango dancing, street performers and have the
chance to buy some local handicrafts.

On our way back to your hotel we pass through the
newly restored Puerto Madero area where you can choose to be dropped off
at for a nice meal by the waterfront. The remainder of the afternoon is
at your leisure with the chance to visit some of Buenos Aires’ many
great museums or do some shopping.

Tango expresses the heart and spirit of Argentina
and no visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without it. This evening,
you will experience the intimacy of this dance in equally intimate
surroundings while you indulge in delicious Argentine cuisine.

*Before the show you have the option of arriving before the others and taking a short tango lesson with a professional dancer or a wine tasting. This comes at an additional cost but if you would like to book either of these please let your consultant know.

Breakfast, Dinner included.

Day 3: Buenos Aires - Recoleta & Palermo half day tour

This morning you will further discover what makes
Buenos Aires great as we explore its better known and sophisticated
districts; Palermo and Recoleta. We start with a drive through Recoleta
with its open green spaces mixed in with elegant boutique shopping,
cafés, embassies and impressive architecture. We visit such landmarks as
the Pilar Church and Evita Monument before taking a short walk through
the Recoleta cemetery where Evita’s tomb can be found.

We continue on to Palermo which is Buenos Aires’
largest neighbourhood, and also its trendiest. Here you will walk the
streets which are full of beautiful parks, hip boutique hotels, chic
restaurants and bars, and high fashion stores. Throughout the morning
your knowledgeable guide will give you an insight into local life and
excellent local cuisine and on completion of the tour you will have the
option of being dropped off at an excellent restaurant for lunch or
being taken back to your hotel.

*Another option on this day is to cross the Rio de
la Plata into Uruguay and spend the day in the historic town of Colonia
del Sacramento or visit a traditional estancia in the ‘Pampas’ region. Supplements apply and these tours must be pre-organised.

Breakfast included.

Day 4: Buenos Aires to Iguazu

Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Buenos Aires airport for your flight to Iguazu where you are met and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

*If you wish to upgrade to one of the two hotels located in the national park overlooking the falls, please let us know as these exclusive, award-winning hotels book out well in advance.

Breakfast included.

Day 5: Argentinean falls tour

In the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Iguazu National Park. From the entrance, a small train will take you on a tour of the park. On the first of two stops, you’ll follow pathways to the top of the Cataratas (“The Falls”) where you’ll find a spectacular view of the falls and their surrounding scenery, including an abundance of orchids, colourful birds and other native wildlife. The second stop occurs at La Garganta del Diablo (“The Devil’s Throat”), the largest fall in the park and also the highlight of the tour. A suspended platform at the brink of the fall allows for a startlingly close view of this breathtaking natural wonder.

*For those who want a little more adventure, we recommend the Great Adventure Boat Tour, which enables you to gain a different perspective as you cruise on a motorboat underneath the falls.

Breakfast included.

Day 6: Iguazu – Lima

This morning you will enjoy a tour of the panoramic Brazilian side of
the falls. Here, you'll watch as 14 separate waterfalls drop with such
force that a tall cloud of mist stays permanently suspended overhead.
Great photo opportunities abound, however, raincoats are highly
advisable!

In the afternoon our representative will pick you up from your hotel
and transfer you across the border into Brazil to Foz do Iguazu airport
for your departure flight to Lima.

On arrival in Lima you will be met by our representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

This evening is at your leisure and we recommend venturing into one of Lima’s many outstanding restaurants in the “Gastronomical Capital of Latin America”. In particular we suggest you try ceviche, the national dish of Peru, which is a form of citrus-marinated seafood.

Breakfast included.

Day 7: Exclusive Lima Tour

Depart this morning on a 5 hour sightseeing tour exploring the most impressive sights of Lima along with some of our handpicked favourites. We will start in Miraflores market, a vibrant place visited by local chefs for its wonderful variety of fresh produce from the coast, the Andes and the Amazon. Take the chance to learn more about Peru’s diversity reflected in the colourful assortment of vegetables, fruits, fish and condiments.

On the way to Lima’s downtown we pass by ‘Huaca Pucllana’ an ancient adobe pyramid structure which served as one of the region’s most important ceremonial temples between the years of 200 AD and 700 AD. We continue to the San Isidro district and visit the impressive ‘El Olivar’ park before stopping at the historic Hotel Bolivar where you have the chance to taste Peru’s national drink, the ‘Pisco Sour’. This hotel used to be Lima’s most elegant and sophisticated hotel and the hotel’s barman will show you how to mix this tasty drink. Later we visit Lima’s downtown with its historic and traditional buildings: the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s palace and the Metropolitan City Hall surround the Main Square. Continue to San Francisco church and monastery, a 17th century jewel, recognised as a cultural heritage site by UNESCO.

This tour finishes with a guided visit of the Larco Herrera Museum. This is a fabulous private museum with an exquisite collection of gold and silver treasures from ancient Peru. Many pieces in this museum are now world famous after having been exhibited in the best museums around the world.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the city on your own.

Breakfast included.

Day 8: Lima - The Amazon

Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Lima airport for your departure flight to Puerto Maldonado, deep in the lowlands of the Amazon jungle. On arrival we travel by motorised canoe to our lodge in the Tambopata Rainforest area, which holds the world record for the most bird sightings in one area.

During our voyage you will have the chance to see bird species typical of the river or forest edge such as Black Skimmers, Pied Lapwings, Capped Herons, Jabiru Storks, Roadside Hawks and several species of kingfishers, swallows, and flycatchers. The Tambopata area includes habitats ranging from the Andean highlands around the rivers' headwaters through some of the last remaining intact cloud forests to the lowland rainforests of the Amazon basin. The area is renowned for its diverse plant and animal populations and include over 1,300 bird species. Some of the more famous residents are the Harpy Eagle, the prehistoric looking Hoatzin, tapir, peccary, jaguar, ocelot and playful river otters who live in the area’s oxbow lakes.

During your stay at the lodge all meals and activities are included.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.

Day 9: The Amazon

Day 10: Puerto Maldonado - Cusco

After an early breakfast we return by motorised canoe for the return trip to the Puerto Maldonado Airport, taking advantage of valuable early morning wildlife activity along the river. From here you’ll fly 45 minutes to Cusco.

On arrival at Cusco airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

We suggest you take things slowly today in order to acclimatise to Cusco's altitude or even add in an additional day for relaxation. In the evening there are many excellent restaurants to choose from in Cusco.

Breakfast included.

Day 11: Cusco City Tour

Your first morning in Cusco can be spent at your leisure, enjoying breakfast before exploring Cusco or relaxing at your hotel. In the afternoon you will be met for your guided tour of Cusco and its archaeological sites. Your Cusco tour will include highlights such as Plaza de Armas, the cathedral and Koricancha Temple. We also visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed ruins of Sacsayhuaman just outside of Cusco which were once the former capital of the Incan Empire.

Breakfast included.

Day 12: Cusco - Sacred Valley – Aguas Calientes

Today, we discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas on this full day excursion. This fertile river valley was home to many important sites for the Incas, both strategic and religious. We travel to the scenic town of Pisac where you'll visit the colourful local market and have free time to search for a souvenir or two before enjoying a typical Andean lunch at a local restaurant.

We then continue our journey along the River Urubamba, to Ollantaytambo, where you will visit the Ollantaytambo Ruins and one of its best preserved areas, Hanan Hucaypata. Catch the scenic afternoon train to Aguas Calientes where you will spend the evening and prepare for your early morning visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

*Option to add a night in the colonial town of Ollantaytambo and continue to Machu Picchu early tomorrow, giving you the opportunity to enjoy two visits to Machu Picchu.

Breakfast, Lunch included.

Day 13: Machu Picchu

This morning you will have an early start to visit Machu Picchu at sunrise and see the vivid colours brightening up this amazing destination. You will have a guided tour of the ruins and monuments, such as the Main Square, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Solar Clock, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the cemeteries. The citadel was discovered in 1911 by the American explorer and Academic, Hiram Bingham. Many theories on the citadel exist, but most agree it was a holy site, hidden for centuries and never found by the invading Spanish.

For those looking for adventure, we recommend the 1.5 hour trek up Huayna Picchu Mountain, which overlooks Machu Picchu and allows for spectacular views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding area. Your return train through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Cusco will depart in the afternoon and arrive in the early evening.

Includes guided tour, return bus from Aguas Calientes village and return to Cusco by train.

Breakfast included.

Day 14: Cusco - Puno

Today we travel for 7 hours along the Vilcanota River and onto the altiplano, the high plains separating the Andes from the jungle. Although it is quite a long drive, it is interesting and often spectacular. There are scheduled short tours at interesting sites like Rachi, Andahuayillas and La Raya to help break up the day and all along the route we get a feeling for the immensity of the Andean landscapes. Transfer to your hotel on arrival.

*On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (May – October), and Saturdays there is the option of making the journey by train aboard the luxury Andean Explorer for an additional cost.

Breakfast included.

Day 15: Uros & Taquile Island

This morning we board our speed boat for the cruise to the Uros and Taquile Islands. By taking a speed boat we save 2 hours travel time giving you more time to explore the islands.

Our first stop is to visit the Uros Indians, who live on islands of floating reeds and, save for a few modest concessions to the modern world, still live as their ancestors would have done centuries ago.

We continue on to Taquile Island where we will tour around the ruins and visit these beautiful people, world famous for their intricate and fascinating weavings. After lunch we will return to Puno and transfer back to your hotel.

* If you have an extra day then we recommend spending this evening in an authentic Lake Titicaca island home. On the following day you will return to Puno via Taquile Island.

Breakfast, Lunch included.

Day 16: Puno – Copacabana - Sun Island

Transfer to the bus station for the bus from Puno to Copacabana completing the border crossing along the way. On arrival in Copacabana your guide will take you on a short tour of the town including a visit to the famous Virgen Morena and its church.

After lunch in a local restaurant you will take the boat to the Island of the Sun where according to the legend, the Inca couple Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo appeared to found the Empire of the Sun. On arrival we explore the Inca steps and the small community of Yumani which has kept its traditions and boasts breathtaking views over the lake. After visiting the Pilkokaina ruins we hike for about an hour to your spectacularly located accommodation where the evening is spent at leisure.

*Please note that the walk from the boat to your accommodation does involve a steep hill which can be strenuous depending on your level of fitness so if this is a concern then please let us know and we can arrange alternatives. Your luggage can be transported for you.

Breakfast, Lunch included.

Day 17: Sun Island - Copacabana - La Paz

This morning you can expect a spectacular sunrise over the lake before we take the boat north to visit the Chincana ruins and the Island of the Moon. Later we return to Copacabana and continue onto La Paz.

The first glimpse of La Paz will, literally, take your breath away, and not only because of its altitude (3660 metres above sea level). The city’s buildings cling to the sides of the canyon and on a clear day the imposing Mount Illimani, which reaches a height of 6439 metres, provides a spectacular backdrop.
This evening will be at your leisure.

Breakfast, Lunch included.

Day 18: La Paz city tour

Our 5 hour tour of La Paz begins with a visit to the Bolivian National Museum of Archaeology which is located in the capital of La Paz and serves as an insightful look into the mystifying relics of Bolivia’s past. Wander the halls, gaze at artefacts dating back as far as 1,500 BC and trace the history of the indigenous peoples from eras long forgotten through the art which is still being produced today. From here we head to ‘Mirador Balcón’ which offers spectacular views of the city and after a short walk we reach Plaza Murillo and admire the colonial architecture around the square as your guide introduces the culture and history of La Paz and Bolivia. Enjoy a traditional midmorning ‘Salteña’ snack as you take in the plaza.

We then wander through Calle Jaen, with its steep, narrow cobblestone alley lined with brightly coloured colonial houses, cafes and museums before taking a cable car to El Alto. You can expect spectacular views and then at the end you are met by your driver and transferred back into town where we visit the Witches' Market. Your guide shares information about Aymara healing and spiritual beliefs as you browse an amazing array of medicinal herbs, folk remedies and talismans. You can even pay to have your fortune told by a shaman who specialises in reading fortunes with coca leaves. We return you to your hotel and you have the remainder of the day at leisure.

* The Gold Museum and some other municipal museums are closed on Monday.

Breakfast included.

Day 19: La Paz – Uyuni

This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your short flight to Uyuni.

On arrival in Uyuni you will embark on a 3 day desert crossing by 4WD (expert English speaking guide included) across the stunning, mars-like landscapes between the Salar de Uyuni and the Atacama Desert (Chile). Driving across the salt flats is a fantastic experience, particularly for the contrast of piercing blue skies and blinding white salt on the flat lake bed. The area’s unusual landscape of mountains, active volcanoes and geysers are like nowhere on earth.

First, we’ll visit the Train Cemetery on the outskirts of Uyuni, and then we’ll go through the Great Salt Flat to Colchani to observe the salt processing plant and salt extraction methods. Later, we’ll visit the Palacio de Sal and Spa Hotel, the first hotel entirely made of salt, before venturing out on to the salt flats of the Salar de Uyuni to Incahuasi Island.

This incredible destination is a great spot for all those perspective bending photographs and Incahuasi Island is populated by giant cacti up to 10 metres high. You will have the opportunity to climb to its highest peak, where you can absorb stunning views of the salt-encrusted lake bed surrounded by golden-hued mountains, snow-capped peaks and an endless azure horizon that will forever engrave itself into your memory.

Lunch will be served before we continue past more dazzling scenery to our accommodation for the evening. The area’s unusual landscape of mountains, active volcanoes, and geysers are like nowhere on earth.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.

Day 20: Salar de Uyuni

After breakfast, we’ll start an amazing day filled with wildlife and spectacular volcanic scenery. The numerous geysers, boiling mud pools, and thermal baths, and
the mighty Licancabúr volcano are clear evidence of the region’s association with volcanic
activity. Surprisingly, wildlife manages to survive and
even thrive in the desolate landscape and you can expect to encounter Vicunas, Llamas and 3 varieties of flamingos which inhabit the many lakes we will pass.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.

Day 21: Salar de Uyuni – San Pedro

This morning you will depart around 5:30am to watch the sun rise at Red Lagoon. Following this, you will visit the geysers, the Green Lagoon and the Licancabur Volcano. You will also have the opportunity to take a dip in the hot springs. From here you will make your connection with the coach that will take you to San Pedro de Atacama which should take about one hour. Upon leaving Bolivia you will get your passport stamped by authorities.

Breakfast included.

Day 22: San Pedro: Valley of the moon tour

The morning will be at your leisure to explore San Pedro, an unusually colourful village located 2440 metres above sea level in the middle of a green oasis.

In the afternoon you will be taken into the mystifying Moon Valley, with its tiny but beautiful salt ponds and the backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes. At sunset, you can see how the light intensifies the impression of this moonscape. We will climb a sand dune to watch this spectacle before returning to your hotel.

Breakfast included.

Day 23: San Pedro to Santiago

Today you will be free to explore San Pedro and its surrounding area at leisure before we transfer you to the airport in Calama for your departure flight.

On arrival at Santiago airport you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

Breakfast included.

Day 24: Exclusive Santiago Tour

Let us introduce you to the classic city we know and love on this 6 hour tour exploring the city’s most popular sights along with some of our personal favourites. Chile´s rich cultural heritage comes to life as we visit the iconic symbols of the city, including La Plaza de Armas (the main square), La Moneda (the government palace), the Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral and the spectacular Cerro Santa Lucia, where the city was founded in 1541.

We continue to the bohemian area of Bellavista and climb the San Cristobal hill for a panoramic view of Santiago with the Andes Mountains in the background. We’ll also visit the Orient Sector, the most modern area of the city, with its impressive high rise buildings and classy boulevards before we offer you a choice of the activities designed to enhance your Santiago experience.

You’ll be given the option (you can decide on the day) to visit the picturesque Los Dominicos craft market where we can walk through the artisan village and enjoy a tasty empanada at one of the outdoor cafés, discover Santiago’s impressive pre-Columbian museum, explore the historic Lastarria Neighbourhood or take a walking tour through the Mercado Central, Chile’s largest fresh seafood market where you can try some of the local cuisine on offer. If you’d like to visit all these places then just let us know in advance and we can extend your tour to do this.

On completion of the tour you’ll be returned back to your hotel and have free time to further explore the city at your leisure.

Breakfast included.

Day 25: Santiago departure

Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Santiago airport for your departure flight.

Breakfast included.

Departs - Daily

Suggested Hotels

City

Comfort

Superior

Deluxe

Buenos Aires

Patios de San Telmo

Savoy Hotel

Madero

Iguazu

Jardin del Iguazu Hotel

Falls Iguazu Hotel & Spa

Loi Suites

Lima

Los Girasoles

Casa Andina Select

Marriot Courtyard Lima

Amazon

Posada Amazonas

Posada Amazonas

Reserva Amazonica

Cusco

Maytaq

Abittare

Aranwa Cusco

Aguas Calientes

Hatun Samay

El Mapi

Sumaq Hotel

Puno

Intiqua

Jose Antonio

Libertador

Isla del Sol

Eco Lodge La Estancia

Eco Lodge La Estancia

Eco Lodge La Estancia

La Paz

Hostal Naira

Hotel Rosario

Camino Real Apart Hotel

Uyuni

Basic Guest House- Shared Room

Basic Guest House - Private Room

Tayka de Sal

San Pedro

Casa Don Tomas

Altiplanico

Alto Atacama

Santiago

Meridiano Sur Petit Hotel

Luciano K

Lastarria

What's included?

Accommodation with private facilities (in Uyuni facilities will depend on the category chosen)